5 Candlelit Restaurants in Ohio Perfect for a Cozy Night Out

You know that classic Italian-inspired song, That's Amore? "When the world seems to shine like you've had too much wine, that's amore!" Its writer, Dean Martin, was a local, and I like to think that he strived to capture the more romantic aspect of life in Ohio in his songs. And truly, when it comes to romantic dining in Ohio, there's no shortage of dreamy restaurants to check out. Get your restaurant review journal ready, because these candlelit restaurants in Ohio are calling your name!

1. L'Albatros

There's so much to do when it comes to date nights in Cleveland, but you truly can't go wrong with dinner at L'Albatros. The restaurant is situated in an 1800s carriage house on the campus of Case Western Reserve, but despite the cozy and historic surrounds, this place is all about the modern vibes. Minimalist decor and modern French cuisine come out to play, creating an ambiance that locals can't get enough of.

French brasserie fare comprises most of their menu, ranging from soup and hors d'oeuvres to steak, salmon, and pasta. Pizza is an easy choice for pickier eaters, and vegetarian selections ensure there's something on the menu for everyone. The casual space creates an intimate bubble where the flavors of each dish can really shine, and an impressive wine and cocktail list rounds out the menu.

2. The Guild House

Rustic accoutrements add a cozy flair to the modern space at The Guild House. This Columbus restaurant is globally inspired with an emphasis on local ingredients, so it has something for everyone across its breakfast, lunch, and dinner offerings. However, if you're looking for a romantic candlelit meal, dinner is going to be your favorite time to visit.

The dinner menu boasts some interesting options, from ginger-accented dumplings to lab burgers. All sorts of surf and turf options await the opportunity to delight your taste buds, and veggie options like hasselback potatoes, roasted broccolini, and braised carrots round out the offerings. Whatever you get for your entree, don't forget to indulge in a cheese board to kick off your meal. So yummy!

3. Refectory Restaurant

For over four decades, the Refectory Restaurant has delighted Columbus-area diners with French cuisine in one of the most unusual settings. As soon as you step inside, the high ceilings and stained glass windows will enchant you, and these aren't just there to enhance your dining experience. This cool restaurant was once a church, and the fireplace and candlelight definitely give it a heavenly atmosphere.

Their menu is vaster than you may expect, but the Five-Course Tasting Menu (and vegetarian version) is the star of the show, but there's plenty to choose from to build your own experience, too. Caviar, roasted swordfish, duck and venison, and a variety of other unique options are poised to create a meal you won't soon forget.

4. Sotto

If you find yourself in Cincinnati, Sotto is one of the coolest rustic Italian restaurants in Ohio. Rustic natural wood and exposed brick set the scene for a candlelit indulgence, and the minimalistic decor allows the food to take center stage. (Though the Vampire Room does have a flair all its own, and it's worth checking out for parties!)

In addition to a warm ambiance and impressive wine list, you'll find a menu full of dishes like goat cheese and honey-topped bread, wood-fired quail, and delicious pastas like linguine alle vongole. While it's tempting to go all-out with dinner, make sure you save room for desserts like panna cotta or ricotta donuts.

5. Nicola's

I love the Over-the-Rhine historic neighborhood, as the vibe in this section of Cincinnati just can't be beat. While crowds can be common in OTR, it's worth braving the traffic to get in at Nicola's Italian restaurant. Here, exposed brick walls and chandelier elements create a vibe that just fits perfectly with the quirky-cool neighborhood, and it's plain to see why locals have frequented this spot for over two decades.

While the vibes may draw you in, you'll want to stay for the food. The dinner menu features house-made breads, decadent soups and salads, and freshly made pasta. (If you do opt for pasta, make sure you request truffle shavings. They really enhance the flavor!) From Tuscan rabbit ragout to beet-dusted risotto, this romantic restaurant in Cincinnati just might become one of your new local favorites.

There's no shortage of romantic restaurants in Ohio, but these tried and true options are ones locals swear by.

Looking for more romantic things to do in Ohio? Fortunately for you, the most romantic hotel in America is right here in The Buckeye State.